There are 600 million adolescent girls in the developing world. These girls are often denied formal education due to various political, economic and social factors. Without an education these girls and women are more vulnerable. In recent months violence against girls and women has been increasing around the world.

In India there have been many violent rapes and murders of young girls and women. Politicians have been reluctant to take measures to cease these violent attacks, though the newly elected prime minister Narendra Modi has called for action to protect women.

In mid April 276 Nigerian school girls were kidnapped by extremist group Boko Haram. The aftermath has not only created an international campaign to bring back the girls which has been backed by the likes of Michelle Obama and Malala Yousafzai (#bringbackourgirls), but it has also brought wider awareness to the larger issue of child marriage throughout Nigeria and Africa.

And who is Malala Yousafzai? A 17 year old young lady who has been working as a journalist since age 11, fighting for education rights for girls and women in Pakistan against the Taliban. The Taliban attempted to kill her and at times banned girls from attending school where Malala is from. She now works internationally as an activist creating awareness for girls and women everywhere.

Around the world girls and women are having their freedoms and rights restricted. But many, like Malala, are fighting to change this.

The Malala Fund seeks to empower girls and women through education around the world. Similarly, Global Fund for Women seeks to do the same empowering women internationally. These are just two charities that are striving to change the course of the lives of girls and women everywhere.

You can make a difference in the lives of girls and women too. Mycharitymap can help you find a charity to get involved with. Visit Mycharitymap today and find a charity that resonates with you whether it is the empowerment of women or other important issues, find your cause and leave your mark on the map!